National Building Museum, Washington, D.C.

BioRentention Cell to improve water quality discharge from parking lot.

This is an example of a biorentention cell project to improve water quality discharge from parking lot near the National Building Museum. The National Building Museum is a cultural institution devoted to the history and impact of the built environment. It tells stories of architecture, engineering, and design. John Shorb Landscaping has added to this rich collection of stories through its outdoor landscape project that enhances the family-friendly experience at the National Building Museum from visitors from around the world.

Excavation is done. Cuts are made through the curb wall and the main drainage wall.
 

Corrugated plastic pipe with holes is inserted into the main wall and placed in the drainage field. Course gravel covers the exposed pipe.
 

Water permeable tarp covers the gravel and decorative rip rap is placed at the curb cut filling the main spillway.
 

Combined mixture backfill adds additional drainage without hindering healthy grass and plant growth.
 

Completed work is sefl sustaining and improves water discharge.